Hearty Apple-Pumpkin Soup: A Wholesome Autumn Delight
This Hearty Apple-Pumpkin Soup is the quintessential fall recipe that combines the sweet, tangy flavor of apples with the rich, smooth taste of pumpkin. Perfect for a cozy evening or a festive gathering, this creamy soup is both comforting and nutritious. The blend of seasonal autumn produce showcases the best of harvest flavors, finished with a hint of spice to warm you up.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped apples to the pot, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, and apple cider, and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the apples are soft.
- Using an immersion blender (or transferring the soup in batches to a regular blender), puree the soup until smooth.
- If using, stir in the heavy cream to add richness and creaminess to the soup.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad. Enjoy your Hearty Apple-Pumpkin Soup!